Food In Preah Khan

Food History of Preah Khan, Siem Reap, Cambodia

The ancient temple complex of Preah Khan in Siem Reap is a site steeped in history, not just architecturally but also gastronomically. The traditional Khmer cuisine of Cambodia has evolved over centuries, influenced by the rich cultural exchanges from neighbors such as Thailand, Vietnam, and China. Food played an integral role in the lives of the Angkor-era inhabitants, with rice being the staple food supplemented by fish from the Tonle Sap Lake and various meats except cow, respecting the Hindu customs prevalent during the early Khmer Empire. Over time, Cambodian cuisine has developed its own distinct flavors using ingredients like lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, and kroeung, a type of Khmer herb paste.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Preah Khan, Siem Reap, Cambodia

1. Amok Fish (Non-Veg): A classic Khmer dish, fish amok is a steamed curry dish that is rich in coconut milk and seasoned with kroeung.
2. Banh Chiao (Non-Veg): The Cambodian version of a pancake stuffed with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and served with a fresh salad.
3. Khmer Curry (Non-Veg): A less spicy curry compared to its Thai counterpart, it can be made with chicken or fish and is served with bread or rice.
4. Kuy Teav (Non-Veg): A noodle soup usually served for breakfast, made with pork or seafood broth and topped with various meats or seafood.
5. Num Banh Chok (Non-Veg): Also known as Khmer noodles, this dish is typically served with a fish-based green curry gravy made with lemongrass and turmeric.
6. Lap Khmer (Non-Veg): A lime-marinated beef salad cooked rare and mixed with vegetables, herbs, and lots of chilies.
7. Lok Lak (Non-Veg): Stir-fried beef served with a savory brown sauce, rice, and a fried egg on top.
8. Red Tree Ants with Beef (Non-Veg): A stir-fried dish with a mix of beef and ants, flavored with lemongrass, garlic, and chilies.
9. Vegetable Stir Fry (Veg): Various fresh local vegetables stir-fried with garlic and soy or oyster sauce, can be served with or without tofu.
10. Fried Spring Rolls (Veg/Non-Veg): These can be prepared with vegetables or meat, and are served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce.

Top Famous Restaurants in Preah Khan, Siem Reap, Cambodia

• Mahob Khmer Cuisine
  Address: Siem Reap, Road 60
  Famous Food: Lok Lak (Non-Veg)
  
• Haven
  Address: Chocolate Road, Siem Reap
  Famous Food: Fish Amok (Non-Veg)
  
• Chamkar Vegetarian Restaurant
  Address: The Passage, Old Market, Siem Reap
  Famous Food: Fried Spring Rolls (Veg)
  
• The Sugar Palm
  Address: Taphul Rd, Siem Reap
  Famous Food: Chicken Curry (Non-Veg)
  
• Touich Restaurant
  Address: Street 27, Siem Reap
  Famous Food: Beef Skewers (Non-Veg)
  

There are ample dining options available in Preah Khan and Siem Reap where travelers can indulge in both traditional Khmer cuisine as well as international dishes. Note that while Preah Khan itself is mainly an archaeological site, the nearby city of Siem Reap hosts a variety of restaurants catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.